The Office of Community Services (OCS) funds a new Fine Fare Supermarket and BORN

On July 13th, SoBRO joined Frank Pimentel’s second Fine Fare Supermarket Grand Opening in the Melrose section of the Bronx at the 149th Street and Brook Avenue location. The new 14,000 square foot Fine Fare creates a new place to grab lunch in the once “food desert” area as they have an extensive 5,000 square foot fresh produce department, a hot and cold salad/fruit bar, in-house bakery, and a butcher shop in addition to standard grocery amenities. Additional notable items were the pre-made packaged salads and sandwiches, Asian food section, naan Indian bread, challah bread, lentil chips, and a section dedicated to organic items. There is free rooftop parking designated for customers only. SoBRO youth handed out “Green Bucks” to residents for the purchase of fresh produce and other healthy alternatives. We’d like to give special thanks to the Office of Community Services (OCS) for their Community Economic Development Healthy Food Financing Initiative Project – FY 2016 that has supported our goal to increase the availability of healthy food options at South Bronx restaurants, support the expansion of businesses providing healthy food options, and facilitating the creation of employment opportunities for Bronx residents. This project has empowered local entrepreneur Henry Obispo to launch his socially conscious cold-pressed juice bar and healthy food eatery BORN Corp.; provided technical assistance to members of the South Bronx’s United Business Cooperative (UBC); and activated commercial and community space at the SoBRO managed Roberto Clemente Plaza. What’s more, Fine Fare’s opening created 25 jobs and BORN’s opening will create 15 jobs.

Mission

SoBRO’s mission is to enhance the quality of life in
the South Bronx by strengthening businesses
and creating innovative economic, housing,
educational, and career development
programs for youth and adults.